Many gardeners tend to shudder when you mention oxalis, mostly due to the fact that it is one of the harder weeds to control in the garden. But, did you know that there is one variety that is so coveted by plant enthusiasts it is on the most wanted indoor plant list? This highly sought after plant is more commonly known as the Purple Shamrock (Oxalis triangularis) and with its strikingly dark burgundy leaves and white flowers who wouldn’t want to have it in their hot little hands! For beginner enthusiasts the Purple Shamrock is a great start into the plant world. Similar to their weedy relatives, these plants require minimal care making them a perfect prized possession for your indoor or outdoor jungles.
How to grow purple shamrock in a pot
- Choose a spot in the garden or indoors, that receives filtered light and preferably morning sun.
- Fill chosen pots with quality potting mix, such as Yates Potting Mix with Dynamic Lifter.
- Remove the plant from the container, gently tease the roots.
- Position in pot and backfill with potting mix, gently firming down. Water in well.
- After the initial watering, allow the potting mix to almost completely dry out before watering again. To test, insert your index finger to the first knuckle, if it’s dry, water and if it’s still moist, don’t water.
- Feed fortnightly from spring to late autumn with Yates Thrive Houseplant Liquid Plant Food.
How to grow purple shamrock in a garden
- Choose a partly shaded spot in the garden with well drained soil. Enrich the soil with Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser.
- Dig the planting hole twice as wide and to the same depth as the root-ball. Remove the plant from the container, gently tease the roots and cut away any circled or tangled roots.
- Position in hole and backfill with soil, gently firming down. Form a raised or doughnut shaped ring of soil around the outer edge of the plant's root zone. This helps keep water where it's needed. Always water in well after planting to settle the soil around the roots and keep the soil moist for several weeks while the new plant establishes.
- Mulch with an organic mulch, such as bark chips, sugar cane or pea straw keeping it away from the base of the plant. .
Water well once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. - Feed fortnightly from spring to late autumn with Yates Thrive All Purpose Liquid Plant Food.
Growing tips
Purple Shamrocks can be easily propagated through division. It is best done when the plant is dormant in the cooler months to avoid shock.
Take care when handling all parts of the plants as it is considered to be poisonous. Ensure that it is kept away from pets and young children.
Water less frequently in winter, when the plant is growing in low light, or has become dormant. Once the weather or conditions pick up, the shamrocks are known to shoot back after a short recharge.
Do not over water them as they don’t like wet feet.
Purple Shamrocks will grow very happily in smaller pots. Try not to plant them out in oversized or large pots as they do not have a huge root zone.
If your shamrock is a bit dull, provide it with some morning light to help intensify the colour of the leaves.
Yates Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver & Plant Fertiliser
Create organic nutrient rich soil with Yates Dynamic Lifter for better root growth, stronger plants and more flowers and fruit.
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